really need your help on this last question. Best 96-98 M3 to get??

[silverm3bmw]

Before I buy, I need to know if there is a "better" M3 in these years to be watching for? I was advised, thank you all, that it would be better and cheaper to get the M3 over building up a 318 or even a 328 for that matter. I am only concerned with engine, trans, exhaust and rear possobilities. I already know, I think, to keep an eye out for the VANOS engines. They seem to be a little more fickle than the regular units but seem to do a lot more for performance, so, is there anything else I need to know?

Thanks again and I will use the search button now.

[Serious]

dude sticky thread right at the top of the page.

[silverm3bmw]

Yes my BMW brotha, I do read. Unfortionatly, the sticky is a general question and covers ALL of the M3s. I only like the 95 body styles and the latest year that has that is the 98?? Maybe the 98.5?? I dont know, I am still learnning this BMW lingo. :mad

Now see that brings up a question as to what body style is the 98.5?? Damn, so much frikin "searching"........................ :confused

[Serious]

ok most dont search.

the e36 (my body style as yours) ran from 92-99 m3's were produced from 95 to 99.

in 95 they had the 3.0 and some other differences.

96 saw 3.2L, staggered tire setup, different suspension geometry.

97 came the sedan m3, also small change were made to the grill.

98 first year of m3 vert, sidemarkers changed

98.5 change to 3 spoke steering wheel, rear headrests, last year of sedan. last year of normal 3 series production

99 last year of e36 m3. only coupe/vert offered. no changes from 98.5

[biggafigga]

I believe the side markers changed after 09/96 ('97 models?). You should read the bmwregistry link I had on your other thread. The biggest difference is the engine change from 95 (3.0) to 96-99 (3.2). BTW, the stickied thread Serious is referring to is about E36 M3s. E36 is the chassis code for the body style you are looking for.

So to add to Serious' last post, what do you want? 4 door--only available as 97s and 98s. 2 doors? You're in luck, those are all years. Convertible? Only 98 and 99s.

How about you read the stickied thread (it's the second from the top here) and http://www.bmwmregistry.com/faq.php, and then ask more if your questions aren't answered.

[shim]

97 came the sedan m3, also small change were made to the grill.

98 first year of m3 vert, sidemarkers changed
in 97, they had the wider front grills, & introduced different sidemarkers

after 95, i believe they started making the front bumper mesh grill to black instead of body color

[slickwill21]

in 97, they had the wider front grills, & introduced different sidemarkers

after 95, i believe they started making the front bumper mesh grill to black instead of body color

Thats true :)

[Gene V]

Before I buy, I need to know if there is a "better" M3 in these years to be watching for? I was advised, thank you all, that it would be better and cheaper to get the M3 over building up a 318 or even a 328 for that matter. I am only concerned with engine, trans, exhaust and rear possobilities. I already know, I think, to keep an eye out for the VANOS engines. They seem to be a little more fickle than the regular units but seem to do a lot more for performance, so, is there anything else I need to know?

Thanks again and I will use the search button now.

Buy the one with the lowest mileage/best documented maintenance...